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FREEDOM of the PRESS 

VINDICATED. 

— =>i©i®|®®l»i©'<=~ 

M.1YOK JESSE HUJYT'S 

OFFICIAL ACTS, 

CANVASSED AND COMMENTED ON 



MIRROR, NO. I, 

A COMPOUND LIKENESS 

OF 

RETORT COURTEOUS, 

OR, AN 

ELUCIDATION IN SELF-DEFENCE. 

BY WILLI A3I PECHIN. 



— ««><ittK&;v|#i>*-»"-- 
Baltimore: 

PRINTED liY THOMAS BOOTHBY, NO It, NORTH f.AY-STREET. 



THE 



PRESS. 



"The freedom of the Press is the Palladium of Liberty,"— ought to be 
held sacred as a motto by every American printer. 

The Press was the first powerful advocate, and .the best friend to humani- 
ty ; it arose in a dark age, and like the solar ray, penetrating the dense vapors 
from the earth, glimmered faintly through the mists of superstition and error, 
which over-clouded the horizon of science, that had mourned in silence from 
the overthrow of the Grecian power, and the later ravages of the Goths and 
Vandals. But the same press which promised on its discovery only to aid 
the enlightenment of man and the promotion of social good, was, ere long, 
perverted to the purposes of ambition, and the desire to govern ; and thus it 
has almost universally been with the revelations of the Divinity to man; the 
amount of good which they might, otherwise, have produced, has been destroy- 
ed by the wickedness and cupidity of human nature : yet, notwithstanding, 
the press was thus devoted to the support of despotism and tyranny, 
"ever and anon" some noble spirit would arise, fraught with the benign and 
philanthropic principles of liberty and ecpiality, so congenial to our nature, 
and so well calculated to lighten the burthens which necessarily arise from 
the properties of the political associations of man : and still, in despite of 
these, unhallowed encroachments have been sustained, by the same means 
which should have defeated them. 

The power of the press no one will deny, and if it is admitted, that the 
direction of that power should receive its' impetus from the people, then it 
must be yielded, that any production having the public good in view, with- 
out respect to party feeling or politics, should find ready admission in tbo 
columns of evert public journal which is impartial and independent. I 
would not ask free access for topics of vulgar clamor, personal slander, or 
miserable flourishes of humor or wit; but, I would contend, that when the 
public acts of men in power are investigated and taken into view, on the 
srorc of principle — based on facts, and in decorous language, they should be 
permitted to appear. How, otherwise, can you secure the free institutions 
of the country? If every demagogue who'may rjde into authority, with too 
little principle and information to direct him in what is right, may attempt 
to oppress a fellow citizen, and trnmple on his fair pretentions and righto, 



1 • lflE PRESS. 

free from the scourge of the press, then may a few upstarts and desperate 
usurpers or nullifieis, soon rule the land. Arbitrary notion and caprice would 
rapidly overleap the customs and the laws. 

The press has shaken the foundation of thrones and destroyed tyranny. 
It has established Freedom and the Rights of Man; but it would be a sad 
reverse of position, to admit, for a moment, that its imbecility and corruption 
could put down the liberty of such a country as this. Still, it must be ad- 
mitted, that it is a powerful engine, however directed, and may be made to 
operate against, as well as in favor of the interest of the people. Despotism 
and kingcraft have too often carried their point by this their w r eapon, that 
should have stayed its progress. I am, however, willing to believe, that 
the great bulk of mankind, want but to be put in possession of the truth to 
judge correctly. Hence, to unfold the secret schemes of those who seek to 
oppress or enslave the people, is to give them a "clue," at once interesting 
and useful — as by the exposition, the disease and remedy are at once pre- 
sented. But without the freedom of the Press fhis could not be done. 

In England, the contest between the rightful use and abuse of the press, 
has been most severe ; and even at this day, when the minds of men, gener- 
ally, may be considered most free from prejudices, the press of that country, 
appears of as much service to the crown interest as to the bulk of the nation 
— hence it seems to hang in equilibrium, waiting the issue of the contest 
between reason and truth on the one side, and designing error on the other, 
before it reaches the ne plus ultra of service, which it must originally have 
been designed to render to society. 

The attempt now making to throw further oppression upon Ireland, has 
called forth, in resistance, some noble and daring spirits, both in and out of 
parliament, whose efforts prove that, both the liberty of speech and the free- 
dom of the press, in England, will still find patriotic, fearless and powerful 
defenders. We have satisfactory evidence of security in the calculation made, 
by the recollection of the patriotic speeches of Mr. 0' Council, Rev. Dr. 
IVade, fyc. at a recent National Uniojn meeting, London. 

In the United States, the liberty of the press should rest with its con- 
ductors. — May they hold it sacred and yield it a manly and firm defence ! 

Whilst the press is regulated by a principle of 'percentage,' as it is in Bal- 
timore, every evil may be dreaded, as to encroachment, from fallible men, 
and such as are governed by weak minds and bad passions. Instead of per- 
forming the office of censor morum, as should be the province of the press, as 
to official men, it is unwilling to risk animadversion, from a fear of losing 
patronage — in the shape of subscription and advertising ! Thus, the sole 
faculty of making money shackles the freedom of the press — even in this 
boasted land of liberty ! Among the Turks or Chinese, as it will appear, I 
should have fared as well, as with the printers of Baltimore. 

It was my wish to have given a condenced view of what is embraced in the 
following exhibit, for newspaper publication; but its admission was refused 
by all the editors of the daily prints in the city, save one. The one alluded 
to, I omitted to call on, well knowing it would offer me no chance. Former 
experience taught me this. Long since, at one of the fatally eventful peri- 
ods of my life, it ceased to be independent; and, as I coneeive, has become 
rotten to the core, as to all that constitutes healthful action. It is any thing 
or nothing ; always in the state of "betweenity" — neither hot or cold ! This 
print I honored with its name. I freed it from all its sponsor's christening 
obligations, and ushered it into a meridian of honorable maturity! I was proud 
ff it, when its natal bird, the Eagle of Freedom, poised it amidst the rays 



THE I": I - 



of a glorious sun, and aloft above grovelling and contracted \ lews and bounds'; 
but, it now labon in its course: we neither discover the feathers that once 
adorned the beauteous bird, nor the energetic pinions that supported its flight! 
When under my auspices, it flapped its wings in triumph, and soared above 
the reach of official power of aristocratic or monied influence! 

The senior editor of the print in question, richly merits niv attention, I 
am now deliberating whether he shall have it in the shape of a tickling-rod 
or a tohip of scorpions! 1 mean figuratively. Gb-Not wishing to take him 
by surprise, he is informed that the 11 folio pages I addressed to him will 
form the oasis of my most respectful attention. 

This will be my second essay in pamphletkering. My first was to cvrh 
the usurpation of extra judicial power.' What this is intended for the pub- 
lic will judge. 

Mv third, as I now contemplate, if the series be not interrupted by No. 2, 
on this subject, will be entitled, "The Mirror, No. 2, or a fair exhibit of an 
original two-fold likeness of Meanness and Ingratitude! " Then; shall Be 
appended thereto, an instructive moral ! — always wishing, as I do, to have 
the public good in view. 

On the subject of the press, I would further say, it should be a puissant 
aid in the cause of liberty and persona! rights; but like other good things, 
which the bounty of Heaven has permitted us to discover and realize, it is 
too often prostituted to private interest, ambition, official dignity, or to little 
consequence, often the offspring of a little honor, accpiired, sometimes, by a 
ramification of accidental circumstances. 

To support the character of a free press, it should at least be considered, 
that if public abuses exist, or if the investigation of the acfrs of public men is 
deemed necessary, an ample and unrestricted field should be open. To re- 
ject the insertion of any article which may embrace such exposure, because 
it may strike at any certain individual, though he may have the appearance 
of being popular, would be to surrender all claim to independence, and l>o 
an abandonment of all the obligations of dutv. 

1 am not for mincing matters. Every printer, as an honest centinel, should 
be fearless. He should "'set his brow like brass," and look arbitrary power 
in the face, and cross its path to stay its progress. 1 never did stoop to des- 
picable expediency — nor did I ever conduct a trammelled press. 

Asa proof that I acted up to my present declarations, I furnish the follow- 
,:i_ editorial article, written by me, at a former period, which will show, 
what 1 may term, the independent and novel principle, on which 1 conducted 
a paper. 

It will' form a chart or model, the adoption of tohich would not fail to 
promote the public interest. 



" Whilst this paper (the paper I then published) shall remain in the 
editor's possession, it> columns shall be open to a free and full discussion ol 
everj SUbjecf in which the interest of liis fellow citizens may be concerned. 
He has marked out for himself a line of conduct, based on the principles of 
the most perfecl independence. From this course he will never swerve, to 
suit the views or purposi l of any man, or set of men. however entitled 
tin v may be to consideration, by their zeal or assumed merits. 

"The Constitution of the State recognizes the liberty of the press, as one 

* Address to Judgre Martin, 



'li THE PRESS 

of the most sacred of civil rights — as the palladium of all that is worth pre- 
serving — and in these sentiments the editor concurs. 

"He has viewed its mighty influence with feelings he will ever cherish, 
in the most grateful recollection. Its salutary power has heen displayed in 
every quarter of the globe where it has been tolerated, serving as a barrier 
against the lawless innovations of the power of despotism, in their unhal- 
lowed attempts on the rights of the people. To its happy effect is to be as- 
cribed whatever of freedom exists, either in this country or in Europe; for 
it has operated like a great moral power in dispelling those mists which ob- 
structed the march of the* human mind. 

" With those views the editor considers he should be culpable indeed, 
were he to give up the names of writers of communications, who may be 
disposed to scrutinize the claims of those who throw themselves before the 
people for public suffrage, or such as hold office. They must, in the nature 
of things, expect a free and untrammelled examination of their merits and 
demerits; the public have a right to subject them to the test of this ordeal. 
Other editors may consider it more safe and convenient to require, in all in- 
stances, real names to accompany communications ; but such ground, thus 
taken, shall not be the rule of editorial duty in the course of this paper. 
Many independent and important discussions would be withheld from the 
public, if names must be forthcoming. The editor is not willing to circum- 
scribe his own privileges, or those of the people — nor is he prepared to cur- 
tail or muzzle the power of the press. Even when the author's name may 
he known, it shall never be surrendered without his consent. Whatever 
are the legitimate rights of a free press he will exercise. 

"Had the author of the letters of Junius been given up, when first de- 
manded, in all probability, those inestimable productions would never have 
been presented to the world ; and the British ministry would have pro- 
gressed in their work of corruption, until the last vestige of liberty would 
have been annihilated. If, then, it was allowed under the restraints of a 
monarchy, all-powerful in every essential requisite of oppression, to investi- 
gate character and expose the mal-praclices of the most favored subjects of 
the Monarch, how much more peculiarly is the exercise of this privilege, in 
a government like ours, formed by, and for the good of the people. 

." Influenced by such considerations, the editor wtmld have it distinctly 
understood, that he holds himself responsible for whatever may' appear in 
his paper. 

" Whilst he will endeavor to preclude unnecessary personalities, every 
subject that shall grace his columns, will be allowed a latitude of discussion, 
sufficiently enlarged to secure to the people a full and perfect understanding." 

I would now ask, how many papers, in Baltimore, are conducted on my 
old plan, as delineated above? Or, I would further ask, how many will clad 
themselves with the same panoply to protect the press ? 

Gentlemen, Editors, 

Yours, very decidedly, 

. WILLIAM PECHIN. 



f<7) 



9IAYOK JESSE IH.TflT'fc 

OFFICIAL ACTS, 

CANVASSED AND COMMENTED ON. 



I wii,L now nwvo to my main purpose, and will commence by furnishing my different 
letters), w'.iich were addrossed to the Hon. Mr. Hunt. My comments on them, with other 
remarks, shall be made with the firm and indopcndcnt spirit of a freeman; fearing nothing, 
whilst within the limits of truth and honor. They will be in simplicity of style, in a con- 
densed structure of language, embracing as much brevity and strength as I can combine to 
effect my object. Although I consider myself as having been unfeelingly treated and agrieved, 
by his honor, slill, I am disposed to respect the. dignity of the office too much, to assail the* 
incumbent with undue warmth. I will just brush lightly over the whole face of the Mayor's 
conduct towards me. Justice and fairness form the ultimate object of every struggle I would 
make with any fellow man. My appeal is to PUBLIC OPINION; if that is against mo 1 
must yield. 

Extract of a letter from W. Pechin to Jesse Hunt, Esq. dated Washington 
December :X)th, 183*., 

"Presuming that some changes will be made in the City Appointments 
permit me to present myself to your notice as an applicant. Not knowing 
what offices may be vacated, I am unwilling to name anv particular one 
Y our knowledge oi me, and the information that my testimonials will furnish' 
will, I conceive constitute evidence of a fair claim to integrity, competency 
and public confidence; which I should be pleased to submit to your impartial 
decision for graduation. r 

''If it could be deemed necessary to obtain the testimonials of some of our 
Jackson friends who have more recently rendered themselves conspicuous 
I feel confident that I can do it ; and I should be willing to hazard an assu- 
rance, that I could obtain a large portion of those gentlemen who form "the 
' Democratic Convention,' who would attest in my favor. 

" Possessing equal firmness of political character with others I still find 
myself deficient, in that importunate pressure, of personal effort, which is so 
otten rewarded with success - . 

" ^ aitin S «< Washington, for the bustle of the inauguration to be over, i 
the offices I had the best chance for, were filled, or nominations made to the 
>enate, betore I handed in my application. 

'• At Annapolis a. similar fate awaited me— mv principal vouchers* were 
not presented until after an improper, if not unconstitutional caucus nomina- 
tion was .made My reliance was on the Governor'* personal friendship and 
his decided and unequivocal political declaration in my favor. He admitted 

uJ^ne'v,! m^hT^V fe MS ""• T "'"'' and '"'"' ■"■»■■* W •* ***** ««*■» 

2+5SJ2S2. }e of the Pre9id * nt ■ (; — r • »* *>, ->• «ssi * ^ w 



T11K MAYOR. 



(hat lie considered my claim, to the patronage of the government, was equal 
to that of any other individual, and ould not be stronger than it was. 

" Be assured, I could command sufficient industry and activity, to fill satis- 
factorily any office which might be conferred on me. 

[Before the Governor's election, and immediately after the inauguration 
of 1829 he pressingly invited me to accompany him to Washington, with 
two influential friends; one a member of Congress; and he gave me a 
Promise he would aid me in an application I had then just made to the 
President. Having just returned from Washington, I declined the invita- 
tion. As regarded State appointments, there was a hostile management ad- 
verse to the friendship of the Governor ! A period may arrive when this 
shall be better understood ! J . 

[At Annapolis, the council, or confirming power ruled. In Baltimore, ttie 
mayor, or nominating power predominated, and was very near being absolute! 
I humblv conceive, there was error in both extremes. The amiability and 
courteousness of the Governor, surrendered too much— the contrary existed, 
as to the Mayor, who yielded too little. At Annapolis I had the nominating 
power in my favor, and failed.— In Baltimore, I had the confirming power, 
and shared the same fate.] ' ' 

[My decided opinion is, that there should be a friendly understanding to 
ensure harmonious and unanimous concurrence of action, in making appoint- 
ments. The power is divided. Then why should not the conventionhwe 
some privilege in scanning characters, who are to come before them. W on id 
it not often prevent rejections, and save the mayors and the applicants feel- 
ings ? And, who are better qualified to investigate than the people s repre- 
sentatives ? Instead of jealousy on the part of the nominating power it 
should rather be pleased with intimations which might lead to a more satis- 
factory designation of qualifications. The mayor would still have the 
po*er to make his selection, and by previous candid and plain republican 
interchange of sentiment, have more chance of unison of feeling in the con- 
vention, and with the community too.] *_) 

(It would appear to me, that if I were mayor, (Mr. H. don t be startled) 
I should be pleased to have the convention share the responsibility, as they 
were willing to do in my case; but, perhaps, I a little brief authority would 
• create delirium. Indeed, history gives us so many sad examples ot Jungus 
power, as to produce a giddy feeling at the very idea; and 1 am prepared, 
at the very instant of contemplating its possession, to retreat from it. 1 am 
ready to ejaculate— Poor, frail humanity! too sudden transitions are above 
the philosophy of ordinary stamina.] 



Extract of a letter, dafcd Washington, early in January last, to a very inti- 
mate and influential friend oj Mr. Hunt. 
"To meet the approaching period for the appointment of City Officers, I 
addressed a letter to the Mayor ; not knowing, however, whether he intends 
making a pruning or not. I recollect one on the list, whose violence against 
Mr. Hunt, had no bounds. I heard him swear, most outrageously that ne 
would not hold his office one day under him. I have never yet heard ot 

his resigning. , , . , ■. „ _,. 

"I have been absent from Baltimore for some weeks, which renders me 
totally uninformed, as to the policy to be pursued, but the triumphant po- 
litical principle which elected Mr. Hunt, merits some consideration— to say 
nothing of rotation in office, and the proscription of the opposition 



"The zeal and cff'qrt with which 1 supported the administration, and the 
heavy sacrifices I have made — strengthened by testimonials, strong as death, 
from the Chancellor, Judges, Members of the United States and Maryland 
Legislatures, &C vVc. with all the other prominent administration men, will, 
I hope render me worthy of the patronage of the executive officer of a < it\ 
where f am so well known. 

" What adds to my solicitude, to obtain a situation is, my anxious wish to ' 
pay some balances 1 still owe, although there is ;<o legal claim against me — 
I mean as to any thing that renders my mind unhappy. Willi the aid ol 
my relatives I have nearly extinguished all 1 stood indebted for to others. 



Copy of a Letter to Jesse, Hunt, Esq. 

Sir, — On the mere contemplated chance of a nomination, 1 will ado; 
. ircitlar to the members of both branches of the Council, individually. The 
object will be, to obtain their approbation and support; and if honored by 
your preference, it may aid in better securing a confirmation in Convention 

On the presenl occasion, I must, however, ask permission to change the, 
character of the application I have had the honor to submit to you. It is 
without limit, embracing the whole range of appointments. It honored with 
a nomination, 1 beg it would be circumscribed by the following: — Cilij 
Colli (tor, ('ill/ Commissioner, or Commissioner of Health. 

Grant me. Sir, a:: incentive to action, tic object of which would iv. 
me from present painful dependence, and I could command sufficient indus- 
try and activity, to (ill, with propriety, any office which can be conferred 
"ii me. Most respectfully, 

Your very obedient servant, 

WM. PECHIN. 

$^> The little intimation imparted at last interview, shall be sacredly ob- 
■ . i ved, as stated to you.* 

ty requirements pertaining to responsibilities, they can be 
ly furnished 



CIRCULAR. | 

Baltimore, February 13th, i 
Sir, — To mi i ting ] :riod of appointment of City Oflii 

I addressed, from Washington, a letter to (he ij^ayor; not knowing, how,- 
ever, what poKcj lie intended to pursue. Since my return to Baltimo 
have had the honor of communicating with him on the subject . ami. I flat- 
ter myself, with tb ration, that I have given him satisfactory 

On the i . ■ of a nomination, I hafe been induced to inform 

I he multiplicity of apple 
should be honored b) an introduction to the convention, I would, in 
dva I n >pei tinlly solicit \ oiu approbation tlvid support. 

• T;, -i Mr Hunt, tie:! / vould ml inurk a rrnt of th 

pmd of tinti office I y.uli, until 1 . aimtmc, (/; | 

law 



10 



rne mayoe. 



In an appeal to the General Government, a mats of recommendatory mat- 
ter was presented, embracing nn estimate of character, from gentlemen of the 
most important standing in Maryland, expressive of a strong and peculiar 
interest in my behalf. Some of the letters exhibited great warmth and 
friendly feeling; they were from the Chancellor, Judges of our Courts, 
Members of Congress, Members of both Branches of the Legislature of Mary- 
land, and many others. « 

Before my application was presented to the President, Col. Mosjier had 
received his appointment, and the Naval Agent had been nominated to the 
Senate. My pretensions were so far honored, as to be graded by the Secre- 
tary of the Treasury, for the Naval Office with Messrs. Can and Piper; but 
the heavy personal efforts of Mr. Can's friends, secured him the ascendency. 
I revisited Washington for the purpose of presenting myself as an appli- 
cant for the appointment of Sargeant-at-Arms, but not arriving until the 
eleventh hour, I found all chance closed against me. When I arrived, all 
was promiscuous bustle and confusion; and in the absence of a Congressional 
Directory, I found it impracticable to effect personal interviews with the 
members. Even as to my own immediate representatives, I encountered 
difficulty in finding them. Pledges had been given to the numerous candi- 
dates, generally ; and some had commenced electioneering last session, when 
the vacancy occurred. All that I knew of the Maryland Delegation were 
pledged before I arrived. A Virginia phalanx could not be resisted. 

Unwilling, as I have been, as an applicant, to designate offices, in the 
possession of others, without knowing that removals are intended; I shall 
conceive, that something is due to "rotation in office;" admitted to be a 
republican principle; but seldom acted on with system and consistency— as 
I replied to a distinguished personage, a few days since, on his quotation of 
the sentiment. 

Whilst it is admitted, that with prudence and economy, one man should 
have been rendered independent, or even comfortable in life, by the emolu- 
ments of office— it must be conceded too, that another, with only equal 
merit and talents, who may be in needy circumstances, or who may have 
been weather-beaten by the blasts of fortune, should, at least, have an equal 
chance in the distribution of public patronage. Permanency in office should 
only be limited to judicial appointments. 

Permit me to say, rotation in office, in city affairs, would have sheltered 
me from being the^ victim of the defalcation of a notorious defaulter and pub- 
lic plunderer. It is unnecesaary to name the individual. After embezzling 
about $13,000 of the public funds, of which not one cent was paid by either 
himself, or his securities, he was improperly kept in office, and sent forth, 
like a prowling wolf, to see whom he might devour, as new securities, of 
which I was one ; being at the time totally ignorant of his delinquency. He 
was permitted again to rifle the public coffers of a further large amount, 
when by a citation from the Mayor, the securities were permitted to know 
it. His career of peculation was stopped. I was authorized, with another, 
to close the collection ; which was done to the satisfaction of the Mayor 
and the securities. Within two weeks I discovered where about $1,200 
had been paid, and not one cent accounted for. The securities honorably 
secured the city. 

He has, since the period alluded to, been in the War Department, at 
Washington, where for his own, snd the services of his son, he has received 
a salary, as I am informed, of $2,300 dollars, To te$t whether he had any- 
thing like redeeming principle in him, I by Utter, asked for th« accommo- 
dation of $20. No auwer was received! 



JJttibk HUNT. 



11 



It affords ma great pleasure to add, that at the period in question, the 
Mayor and a number ot' members of the Council, wished me to accept the 
collector's appointment; but I considered many were worthy of it, and at 
that time, more in need of it. There is nothing invidious intended by this 
reference; it is merely to prove, that the principle fcf rotation may be sus- 
tained. Other views might be given, to establish its propriety, and some- 
times, its expediency. 

I know, disastrous enterprises — unfavorable investments in country pro- 
perty, and a too ready disposition to aid others, have thrown me in the 
)ack-ground. But is poverty a crime? If it be not,. .then do I stand fear- 
essly before you ; and it is truly dear to my heart to say, that I feel strong 
:n believing that I have never forfeited the good opinion and esteem of my 
fellow-citizens, with which I have been often honored. I defy the virulence 
of malice itself to impeach my honor or integrity of purpose. 

It would be superfluous to make a political appeal ; I have been too inti- 
mately identified with the triumphant principle, which shaped your present 
municipal authority, to require a word on the subject. The fathers of some 
to whom this is addressed, were cotemporary with me, and in unison of 
sentiment as early as '98, when at a serious sacrifice of patrimonial funds, I 
published the "Baltimore Intelligencer." Its character for firmness and in- 
dependence against a monied influence, in support of Jejfersonian principles, 
was not surpassed by any print in the country. I afterwards published the 
" American," for which I originally issued the prospectus. With all the 
zeal and tnergy I could command, I devoted its columns to Democratic Re- 
publican principles. — In conducting the American, economy being necessary, 
I for some years performed the combined duties of Editor, Book-Keeper and 
Collector. And I only solicit an incentive now to command all requisite 
action. 

Experience and solidity increased, will, J presume, render me better fitted 
to perform any duties which might be confided to me. 

I am, at present, out of employ, and painfully dependant on two widowed 
daughters, Mrs. Lippincolt and Mrs. Van Dyke. 

Most respectfullv, 

WILLIAM PECHIN. 

Q&As to responsibilities — they may be amply furnished. 

m m " What adds to my solicitude to obtain a situation is, my anxiety to pay 
Bome balances I still owe, although not in legal claim against me. Should I 
obtain public employ, my stipend should be held sacred to cover everv just 
claim. W. P. 



Copy of a Letter to Jesse Hunt, Esq, 

Sir, — In the last communication I had the honor of addressing to you, I 
stated, that I intended to address a circular to the membyrs of the council, 
individually. I have deemed it proper to present you with a copy, which 
is enclosed. Yours, very respectfully, 

WILLIAM PECHIN. 



Copy of a Letter to Jesse Hunt, Es<[. 
At my first interview with you, after my return from Washington, I con- 
sidered I had satisfied you, as respected the evidence I presented, to sustain 
th« application I had madu for a city appointment, in a communication ad- 



'~ THE MAYOR. 



dressed to you And, further, I fondly nattered myself, I should receive 
your friendly attention. I stated, that independently of the strong testimo- 
nials of many of the most distinguished men of our party, that I felt confi- 
dent that it was in my power, to assure you, that even as regarded the other 
party, I could obtain the approbation, on the score of personal feeling of 
the most prominent. I may have thought too favorably of myself, as re- 
garded my opinion of your estimate of my appeal, &c. as it then stood, when 
1 conceived, you seemed to be perfectly satisfied. But, I am fearful I have 
been disappointed inasmuch, as there is reason to believe, my name has not 
been honored with a nomination. 

Can there be any thing which has rendered me unworthy of your patron- 
age ? Has malignant imputation blighted me in your estimation ? If so per- 
mit me to know it, and I am conscious I can dispel it. I know, "the chas- 
tity ot ice and purity of snow," is not security against unfriendly feeling, 
malice and slander— if permitted to operate in the dark. But, sir, I molt 
conhoingiy believe, you would not permit flimsy assertions or rumor, in secret 
to torm a standard for the appreciation of what constitutes reputation. 

1 beg your Honor will excuse this further claim on your attention. My 
great solicitude to stand on fair, firm and irreproachable ground, must prove 
my apology. & > r 

Permit me to call your attention to the fact, that 1 have been "a victim to 
the cause, which we both supported. 

Signal rewards, in some instances, have been yielded to editorial exertions 
and sacrifices ; and I am prepared to say, I should be perfectly willing to have 
mine quadrated by the same principle ; but I would observe, that the differ- 
ence between myself and others, generally, is important. I supported the 
Jackson cause, against the interest of a flourishing establishment, to its ruin, 
mth my oian funds and at my own personal responsibility; whilst others de- 
pended on, and were aided by, contributions raised by the parly. 

If necessary, a reference to the editor of the " Republican," will be suffi- 
cient to attest my friendship to your cause. 

The late editor of the "Republican" admitted, that if services should be 
regarded, I stood on equal ground with himself. He was properly noticed, 
bven the editor of the "Patriot," my most personal and determined oppo- 
nent in 24, declared, that in his estimation, no individual deserved more from 
the party than myself. 

If honored by your nomination, I should have a full reliance on the friend- 
snip of a majority of the convention. 

Respectfully, yours, 

WILLIAM PECHIN. 



Extract of a Letter to Jesse Hunt, Esq. 

SiR,~Some further reflection, since my last note was addressed to you 
has induced me to consider, that the residence of an applicant, may have 
some bearing on the nomination you may make of Commissioner of Health. 

1 would just ask permission, to inform you that my future residence will 
be with Mr. BromweSl, Baltimore, near Sharp street. With a manifesta- 
ration of much friendship, he has given me, a kind, polite and pressing In 

ition to take quarters with him. 

Yours, very obedientlv. 

William peghin. 



IE! i ll { \ i 



13 



Copy of a Letter to Jetse Hint, Esq. 

S.r,-To strengthen my application, now Before vou nermi. m . 
rent to youf consideration, the' result of my Xt in seek W 1 ° P u' e " 

t.on of a majority of the two Branches of t&WcS«S] 8 ** ap ^° ba 

1 nave obtained the signatures of nv •.,«! iU^' r // 1 ' 
M assurances of ™,.^ ut ^ 

ttetr promisks rasuppor/ me, if nominated by vou/ 1 no j ' ° ^ 

EST language and exhibit I can make to vm, Ti' •/ ' 7,, ie str °nc- 

. lurnished the mayor with „,e S pSSL^" f °" 01V - <«'" 

names in the above list ' 0,mnated • bul > " as not empowered to use their 

II I should be nominated, I firmly believe I 4m,,,. „i ♦ • 
vote. All I have called on w \th L 1- ho d obtain an u "animous 

to aid me. ' Ulth thc exce P tl0n of one, express willingness; 

t^'sSiT^^ ■» His signa- 

« cer/mn, will call on you L the subject ^' haS pr0im8ed ' and J 

[I might have added here Messrs R 7 Dn ,l t ,, , 

^irwa^estttena^bip.ifnondS ShouM .£ ^ " Wen me 

tiheated he can have it nominatcd - Should the mayor require this cer- 

' have omitted to call on Messrs ■ ru„ ,i 

men were given the amount Xd to^lEgtlSZ «£ "fr 
one; and I viewed it sufficient wWn T nn \ lI ^' , 1e(1 tw °-tnirds, within 

^ . regret the littletiTde^di g IZt" Z aS £ *£ J W ! 
Ars/ impulse given to the canvass made.* ' US regards the 

Yours, &Ci 
r. tv,- • W - p ECHIN. 

When, as I supposed I had sn 1,,! ,cp , d ', ' ™uld be a strong case.- 
letter exnioit.?^ prese < 1 him v i. ^V*? g ° a1 ' as * e ***■«* 

which, «/»«<■, induced me to encounter rr , i .' , "" condition, 

•'•■ aid, «ii ■ ,,,,,,' :;': j ", "'"1, ■"' r 1 "-,,"- «**«<*. 

-^i^'tt^it^^^^^^''^"" 

.... :';; ;;;,';!;:;:;;: :;,';; t*- - <• »«•«*» •» - he , h ron . 

■^sSLteta^^Ma?'' ""- 



14 THE MAYOR 

ocratic a city as Baltimore, I could not have believed, that a democratic 
chief magistrate, would have thus set at naught, such powerful evidence of 
public feeling ! And what was it done for ? To nominate a man who was 
not an applicant for the office ; and it is believed, never thought of, till the 
evening of his nomination. #Cf?* About Monsieur Tallerand and manage- 
ment, I will not say a word at present ! 

That a co-ordinate and co-operative body, representing the people, should 
have been thus slighted and disregarded, is unpardonable ! It appears as if 
resistance to public opinion was the policy acted on. 

Where, in this transaction, is there a trait, bearing any affinity to even 
the semblance of republicanism? All kindred with it seems extinct — and 
we can discover the germ and instinctive principle of something very much 
like domineering power ; which, without bridling, would soon amount to des- 
potism itself! 

It would seem evident to me; that if the exercise of Mr. Hunt's power, 
as to appointments, was to be regulated by his own feelings and wishes, it 
would be as absolute as that of the Autocrat of all the Russias — or, of the 
sublime Sultan's himself! There appears to have been a species of con- 
temptuous demeanor towards the people in every respect. The voice of the 
whole, or both sides, as in my instance — and the claim and voice of his 
own party, were alike disregarded. His policy was perfectly non-descript, 
unless its definition, as above, be correct. Even the convenient term "be- 
tweenity," would not seem to embrace a fair designation; but, I believe, 
that word best suited the spirit of his object. As vanity is an instinctive 
principle of the human heart, it would not be wonderful, if his honor should 
have felt something of its elevating influence, after riding so triumphantly 
into power. He had a right to consider he had secured one side of the po- 
litical question — and, by a little management, he may have considered he 
had an equal right to calculate on securing the other. How far political 
trucking may do, time will develope. 

Political enthusiasm works wonders ; I have been its victim ; indeed, we 
might suppose, magic power was sometimes concocted with it in the caul- 
dron of incantation — how, otherwise, can you accommodate the political 
whirligig principle of operation, as to the exaltation of some men. It can- 
not well be believed, that the mere whim and caprice of public sentiment 
could give such strange results in public suffrage, as we sometimes witness. 

But yesterday, as it were, the name of Jesse Hunt, was limited, perhaps, 
to his own immediate neighborhood. To-day, it would seem, he has 
planted himself too inaccessibly lofty for ordinary approaches — at least, be- 
yond my republican feeling, or humble purpose. 

After this little digression, I have only to say, that I should not wonder 
if a saddle should be mounted, large enough for covering the backs of both 
parties, with a new display of horsemanship, by the rider, clearing and lead- 
ing the course. But the Old Charger and his friends, it may be supposed, 
will be rather restive without a new rider! It is hoped their motto will be, 
"fair play and no jockeying !" I would indulge a hope, in reserve, that 
the purse will be awarded as the oath in the charter directs, payingproper re- 
spect to the imposing obligation, as to "the mosUwise," &lc. The people of 
Baltimore will not be satisfied with any thing deceptive. The mere appear- 
once of plain republicanism ; reputed modesty and simplicity of manners, will ' 
not be admissible, where there may be the positive manifestation of pride- 
jul and vapouring arrogance, or silly self-importance 'J 



JF.SS1 HUNT. ]5 

Letter from W. Pcchin to Jtsso Hunt, Escp-. March 10, '33. 

Sir,— In republican plainness and simplicity I would most respectfully 
say, "let us reason together :"— 1 mean, as regards the position in which \ 
stand, as an applicant for your official patronage. I had with your Honor 
such interchange ot opinion, I was induced to believe, as did not seem to 
oppose, in sentiment, the idea I had projected, of testing the public senti- 
ment in my favor, by an individual application to those who would consti- 
tute the concent ion. 

Originating with myself, as it did, and destitute of everv thine like a com- 
bination to thwart the executive exercise of power, I viewed it as forming 
an unobjectionable standard, whereby to appreciate character, and calculated 
to produce harmonious action. 

Confiding, in what I considered, an honest and fair appeal to the people's 
representatives, I observed to you, that I thought I could obtain a majority 
of the convention to promise me support. You replied, "it would be a strong 
case. And, I am prepared to say, my exhibit to you on the subject, is 
a cert, strong rase I—Such as, I believe, it would be difficult for any other 
candidate to procure; if it can be done by any other, I will withdraw my 
application. J 

Out of the whole number of members of the convention, with whom I 
bad interviews, two, only are disposed to see impropriety in the expression 
ot good-will townids me, which has been manifested ; but should the bounda- 
ry ot punctilio have been a little infringed, it only adds to the weight of 
recommendation —it amounts to this, nothing more. No interference was in- 
tended ; nor did the transaction bear the image or superscription of dictation 

or even request. 1 should be willing to enter the columns of any paper 

with the two gentlemen, in question, to show the little necessity there can 
be tor so much sensitiveness on the occasion. 

No objection, as to appointments, was made to the last Jackson Executive 
power ol the state ; constituted as are your Honor and the convention The 
Governor 8 council designated the whole list of Baltimore appointments A 
letter in my possession will establish this. But further, we know that at 
all times, when not surrendered by the Governor, nominations arc reflated 
by mutual good understanding, without being considered a clashing of power 
Did tune permit I could give some further illustration. At present I can 
only make allusion to the impropriety sanctioned by the public as' relates 
to the iniraction of the spirit of the charter, in the manner of our election of 
Mayor. It was never intended we should have a pledged electoral ticket- but 
still it is admitted, although it may conflict with thesolemnity of an oath 
atthe period of election— this must be manifest to all. If trifles were al' 
ways regarded, no individual could honestly pledge himself as an elector for 
Mayor— and no candidate could with propriety ask him to do so. 

It is possible, at the period of election, when an elector has' the necessa- 
ry oath propounded to him. he may find his candidate may not be " the 
most WUC and discreet,- &C. Alter an elector may have pledged himself 

for -«m i candidate, another may offer, to whom, onM* oath, he would be 

obliged to give the preference. 

Excuse imperfection in this— it was written in hast,, yesterday; but hear- 
ing you had prepared your nominations, 1 declined presenting it. I made 
known my views to Mr. , [here the name was given] who politely 

promised to impart them to you. On further reflection, I take the liberty of 
forward. ng them to you. By the " Americn" & " Chronicle," I find TOO 
hare not ftnpoint€d a thnltk fWniiijiowr. 



I(i THE MAYOR. 



Letter from Wm. Pechin to the Hon. Jesse Hunt. 

Baltimore, March 19, 1833. 

Sir, — By error in the* "American" and "Chronicle" of the 15th instant, 
at the date of the enclosed, [the preceding letter,] 1 was induced to consider 
you had not made the appointment of Health Commissioner. The postscript 
was written with that impression ; but you have since brought your independ- 
ent mind to its very important determination. Like the great Hughlet, 
who visited us a few years since, you have been yourself, alone ! — the great 
Atlas on which rests the concentrating power of the great city of Balti- 
more, whose great Chief Magistrate you are. 

You made it a matter of great pride, that yoii could, would and did make 
all your nominations without reference to any individual ! Great and meri- 
torious achievement ! Has any thing of the kind ever been done before, by 
any other Executive Officer of a Republican stamp ! I presume no instance 
can be referred to. Even Mercer, governor of Maryland, about the com- 
mencement of the present century, did not raise his crest as you have d,one, 
above his council, so far as to exclude its members from a participation in 
the selection of applicants for nomination. Cjesar, Richard the Third or 
Bonaparte did not wield the Supreme rule, without, at least, the appear- 
ance of popular bidding ! Ameition would here furnish a lofty theme for dis- 
cussion ! Its rapid progress in expansion and developement will command 
future attention. 

What have you done? You have been unwilling to be advised with, or 
consulted — and appeared to tower above respect for the heaviest testimonials, 
by giving evidence of inattention to friendly attempts made to approbate the 
merits of applicants— because you fastidiously fancied it was an inroad on 
your great magisterial prerogatives! Again, I would ask, what have you 
done ! — Set at defiance, I will say, a large majority of the full and perfect- 
ly expressed wishes of the peopled representatives, in my favor — embracing 
both sides of the political question — and further, you nominated a man who 
did not, nor could not have given such evidence of the public feeling and 
wishes. I have always esteemed him as respectable and gentlemanly ; but 
recollect, he was and has been long in employ, and well situated. Unfor- 
tunately I was destitute in these respects — necessarily below the suddenly 
exalted ground you have been planted on. 

As concerns the City Commissioners. Tasked you whether it was neces- 
sary they should be scientific and practical — as Engineers, Architects, &c. 
You answered in the affirmative, and I retired my application for a member 
of that board. How did you prove your sincerity and consistency ? By ap- 
pointing a Hatter, for whose practical knowledge you depend, I suppose, 
on his former employ, as a superintendant at another calling ! I am happy 
to add, as to character, he is spoken of favorably. 

" / think I toouldP' — was the reply you made, when 1 asked you, if you 
would nominate me if I obtained a majority of the Convention — it was this 
that induced me to make the effort. When I further said, 1 could obtain a 
majority, you said, "It would be a strong case." The exhibit I gave you in 
a former communication, ought to have satisfied you, that I would have re- 
ceived nearly unanimous support ; but still you did not nominate me ! The 
result, as you shaped your course towards me, claims no affinity with my 
notion of correctness. 

You gave one gentleman an office, who stands very deservedly preemi- 



ifclftl HWNT. 17 

went as a Magistrate, with a great chance of an increase of business, by the 
repeal of the 30 dollar law. After you were permitted to see that the Go- 
vernor and Council had continued him as a Magistrate, you udvanced his 
grade of office. You might have discovered, that Colonel S. Barry, who 
was B candidate for your favor, had been struck oil* the list of Magistrates. 
Could fair Republican feeling find nothing worthy of the acceptance of such 
a man! If an object with you, would it not have pleased the people better 
had you given him an office, rather than by giving one to a man who already 
had one ! I would call this monopoly in favoritism ! It cannot be palliated. 
With all the pride of self -confidence, even a little dictation might have been 
serviceable to prevent your thus neglecting Col. Barry ! 

I will now ask, who is Col. Barry? — His votes when he was elected 
Sheriff and stood for Mayor, form a basis for some calculation. He is esteem- 
ed for his honesty of heart — integrity of purpose and soul — amiability of dis- 
position — urbanity of manners — gentlemanly conduct, and address. As an 
official man, none have suffered from his want of industry, intelligence or 
energy. 

As to his conduct as a Soldier, it is known to have been meritorious. Per- 
haps, no man in our community, devoted more time, or evinced greater effort, 
in rendering our Militia System effective. As captain of the Blues, his un- 
tiring attention and solicitude, in organizing and disciplining that very re- 
spectable corps, secured him the sincere attachment of its members. They 
felt towards him, something kindred to a filial affection. His old compan- 
ions in arms, must participate in this wound inflicted on their old commander.* 

At a review, at the head of his company, Washington honored him with 
his particular notice and commendation. 

In his command of the 5th Regiment, as Major, his gallant conduct in the. 
actions of Bladensburg and North Point, was honorable to his patriotism and 

* When this old soldier, Col. Barrt, and myself, were at Jforth Point, at the critical mo- 
ment of the battle, when he had a horse shot under him — I would ask, where was Jesse Jlvn', 
the man who has been permitted to ride into power, and has thus rode, rough-shod over him? 
If wc lived in a Fairy land, by Talismanic aid, a certain Atple Tree, in the WESTERN vi- 
cinity of Baltimore, might commonii flted securely under ite shade! I may furnish a 
second edition of this, in the shape of an anecdote, on a future occasion ! 

It is afflictive to reflect, that this old revolutionary patriot, has been permitted to languish un- 
der the clouds of sorrow, darkened with despondency. I hope he will not, in despair, as has 
been stated, leave our Baltimore community. I would Bay to bun — Stay, and let this still bo 
thy home ! The spirit of Freedom, where thou hast so nobly done thy duty, will yet cherish 
and shelter thee under protecting wings. Let the evening of thy day be sp'ent with us, and inav 
thy sun set gloriously! — And it will! Manly and patriotic feeling, the genuine oi'spring of grate- 
ful, affectionate and glowing hearts— with religious and moral obligation, will call forth the Up- 
lifted voice of a spirited people in thy behalf! The old Soldier and Friend of old Soldiers at" the 
Head of the Government, ma}' look towards thee. As he will see this, it will operate as a re- 
miniscence. Ft is said, additional Inspectors of the Revenue will be appointed. It might be 
asked, who so worthy of an appointment as Col. Barry ? His integrity and competency can- 
not be questioned! 

I consider Col. BarryVi claim on the Citizens of Baltimore, as too commanding and imperi- 
ous to be regulated by party feeling. lie whoso signalized himself in preparing Jbr, and 
breasting the rude blasts of war, should be the tavorito of all. l'.vcn his bosom companion act- 
ed the part of a Roman matron — she was for weeks employed in making cartridges for the re- 
ception of the enemy. But, it is singular, that Mich i man as Col. Barrt, one of his Honor's 
party, with other individuals < t 1 1 1 •• same stamp, should have bi when his Honor 

had stated, to justify his adhering tfl the old list, th;it nO JackBOn applicants offered, who were 
competent and worthy of nomination! For my share of the eomptiment, hie Honor will re- 
ceive my best tribute of thanks! 

Though the old Patriot hs« been no-jrlpcted, unfading laurels will give immortality to his 
r.»m«, when the ephrmtral power which has df}rrexcd nirn in bit poverty) will be Jest in the 
fbrgetfulncw of oblivion ! 

3 



18 THE MAYOfi 

courage. On both occasions he was last to leave ihe field. At North Point 
he had a horse shot under him; and he proved, that he had firmness sufficient, 
if necssary, to encounter even a forlorn hope. When duty and interest may 
be called into play, Col. Barry can display all the requisite industry, deter- 
mined effort, assiduity and zeal. Still, the claims of such a man you set at 
naught, as regarded any thing he would deem acceptable ! You preferred 
extending multiplied honors to one man, rather than give the needy veteran 
even the crumbs of public comfort! Dispensing a plurality of offices of 

{>rofit, to one individual, is an odious feature of aristocracy and anti-repub- 
icauism ! 

At your hands, I learn, one man has received an appointment, who was 
previously in the possession of two or three !!! 

On this subject names are unnecessary ; it is only my wish to state facts. 
I am not disposed to make any part of my reflections rest upon the possess- 
ors of office; the impartial and munificent donor is, alone, the object of my 
attention. 

1 have not forgotten, that in better times, when, to prevent it, I had said, • 
"hold, enough!" some half dozen offices were showered upon me, by the 
Legislature, and Governor and Council ; but, so far from asking them, / had 
requested they would be withheld. I could have then said, with more truth 
than Gloster, "since they would buckle honors on my back, to bear the bur- 
den, whether I would or no, I must have patience fo endure the load.* They 
(my offices, I mean) amounted to sound without substance — a mere tinkling 
cymbal — unproductive of either "loaves or fishes." 

[I might have paliated for the pressure of honor done me, as regarded ex- 
ception thereto, by stating, that one of my offices subjected me to confinement 
in the Penitentiary ! Some might suppose this was paying too heavily for 
empty honor. It is a fact, that I devoted weeks there, as an inspector, in 
continuity, to serve the institution, and took rations as my fare^-without 
receiving one cent. This was before the executive committee was appoint- 
ed, with a salary of $1,200. My other offices were equally profitable.] 

As to myself, I consider it infinitely more honorable to merit, than obtain 
success. I would only add, "Alexander, the- Coppersmith, has done me 
much evil; the Lord reward him according to his works.'' You shall hear 
from me anon. As you are a public character, I will take the liberty of 
further addressing you. 

With all due respect, 

WILLIAM PECHIN. 

# \ It was my intention to have assigned for this and the accompanying 
letter, (the one preceding) a different disposition ; this has occasioned delay 
in its reaching you in this shape. 

I am prepared to say, that the press is not free in Baltimore! When I di- 
rected one, I bid defiance to the trammels of power. No freeman's just ap- 
peal for redress of wrongs, or for their exposure, went unheeded. 

It is. consoling to reflect, that the wheel of Fate throws some on its top, by 
accident. Why may I not enjoy hope — -"the last medicine of the miser- 
able !" 

* Here I would admonish you to temper the upUftings of the popular 
gale, with salutary reflection. Remember, the evolutions and revolutions 
of eventful fate! Be assured, mutability is the too ready attendant on earthly 
dstinction ! As the recipient of such sudden exaltation, imbibe the spirit 
of Socrates — his wisdom and philosophy cannot fail to operate as a physical 
damper, should the fervor of feeling and transport, be too ecstatic for the se- 



JL3SE HUNT. 19 

curity of reason and judgment. Don't attribute this to a mere flight on the 
wings of fancy. Believe it, human greatness is very precarious and illusory! 
The ascent to the heights of honor, glory and grandeur, is a slippery 
path; one false step may slide or hurl you from the very pinnacle of elevation to 
the abyss of its antipodes. At the period alluded to above, when honors 
were yielded me unsolicited, I think it <piite probable, you might have, 
even, begged for the feast of them, in vain! It is true they were empty 
hor.ors .' but, on account of them, a clrmor was excited against me, on my 
being brought out by a convention, a second time, to serve the city, in the 
house of Delegates. Having been tltus designated, I would not appear 
personally, in a newspaper contest, although it was in my power to have 
justified myself fully. Fortune has since froicned on me — on you, she has 
tmiled with signal benificence! 

With a disposition to bring myself towards a conclusion, at present, I 
would say to your Honor, that there appears to be an inordinate lust of 
power, which you ought to thank me for my efforts to arrest. Abandon 
any thing like a cunning system of operation ; adopt a straight forward policy, 
and the people will think the better of you.- Be exactly what you appear 
to be. If admonition is not lost on you, obliquities may still be renounced 
and atoned for. Indulgent allowance will be made for a mere ephemeral 
summer's day's experience ! Permit mildness and urbanity to banish as- 
perity and superciliousness. Let all vain-glorious notion of a jealous exer- 
cise of power, to render your convention a nullity, be hereafter obliterated. 
When Col. Smith, the present Mayor of Philadelphia, took the oath of 
office, how different was the modest and republican course he pointed out 
for himself, from that by which you have regulated your conduct. In his 
address, he "professed his desire to receive aid and advice from the coun- 
cils." I conceive, you overbearingly put your veto on such surrender of ex- 
ecutive consequence, for the promotion of harmony. Indeed, the master- 
vice of the heart, ungovernable ambition, seems to have influenced all your 
movements ; particularly as concerned your nominations. But, rely on it, 
petty despots can- never render themselves popular favorites! 



When oppression springs from mushroom power. 
If firmly met, it soon must cower; 
Puff up with pride a little mind, 
Still, it will soon its level find ! 



THE 



MIRROR, MO. f, 



SHEDDING INK WO'NT KILL ! 

Cutting half an inch within the skin, 

Is not too severe for mortal sin ; 
It's mild to cut without drawing blood, 
Sin was much worse punish 'd by the flood 
If temperance -m en liv'd in that day, 
When the deluge swept all things away, 
They all died martyr's in that cause, 
And well deserve the world' s applause. 
Old Nbah "got drunk" as any swine, 
By drinking his own ho me-made wine ; 
Thus subdued without a spir'fous dram, 
He becama the butt of his son Him— 
A fair warning in every clime, 
That none should too much indulge in wine ! 
Whether Wine or Whiskey, 'tis the same, 
If by drinking, men lose name and fame. J 
The effect of drinking, as began, 
Brought a curse on Hani's poor son Canaan 

And curses will rest on all a-kin, 

Who get beastly drunk — or take hen i 



I wish it understood, that I would lay it down, in my exposition of the " Freedom of the 
Press," that all men holding public offices, whether immediately from the people, or at the 
hands of their agents, from the executive departments of the United States or State govern- 
ments; or otherwise, are amenable to the people for all transactions which can affect or clash 
with, their claim to integrity or public confidence:— at least, "is he honest?" It must be acceded 
to, is a fair interrogatory to descant on. 

It affords me no pleasure to lay open to the light of day, the misconduct of any man ; and 
still, it would seem to be a matter of duty to punish, and aid in punishing, crime of every 
grade— at least, the infliction of what may be merited, cannot be considered an act of cruelty 
or inhumanity. The exhibit which shall now be given to sustain the title under which this i» 
presented, will prove, that the individual to whom it applies, has himself to blame for the ex- 
posure of his shame. Although one of the victims of his monstrous fraud in Baltimore, I 



TUB MIRROR. 21 

Lave endeavored to exorcise a bencvolont and genorous policy towards him. 1 haro admon- 
ished Uim, by every animating principle I could command ; and have sturdily endeavored to 
infuse into his soul an honwt and honorable impulse. If the stinging of the remorse of con- 
science has become extinct; or, if his heart, like that of Pharaoh's, has become indurated, 
then may hope be said to have sunk in despair ; and he is prepared for consignment to the 
" regions of Salamanders." A man who would subject himself to such a fate, rather than 
meet a claim, created as mine has been against him, with his ample means to pay, must have 
a ''soul, (if any) that world he lost in immensity, in the pupil of his eye. 1 ' Still, it may be a 
comfort to him to conceive, that if lie funis the destination just assigned to him; should he not 
be intangible, there willbo but an insignificant item for the fangs of punishment to opcrato on 
It will be seen by the following correspondence, that the lowering glomiof denso clouds 
was made to hover over him — it shadowed forth the coming flashes and bolts. Honor and 
honesty could have commanded a magic power, that would have dissolved Fuch direful array 
in refreshing and regenerating showers '. He could have stopped the course of the rolling 
mountain, but it will now crush him. It would appear that no palliatives can be found I 

Letter from W. Pechin to Col. Bcnj. Fowler, dated Washington, Dec. 1832. 

Sir. — I never had seen you since the great blow-up in Baltimore, until 
some days since, when you were coming out of the Department of State. 
My reflection on the occasion, associated with it the tenor of a statement 
made by a gentleman the evening preceding, furnishing honest and honor- 
able traits of character, as regards one of your citizens, who holds a clerkship 
in one of the departments. He had been indebted to the estate of the de- 
ceased father of the gentleman who gave the relation, for upwards of twenty 
years; and a short time since, voluntarily renewed the debt, with interest, 
which, by instalments, he has paid, every cent. 

Unfavorable investments in country property, with disastrous enterprise, 
particularly the total loss of the "Chronicle" establishment, by making it a 
political paper — and, as you know, a too free disposition to aid others, have 
produced a scries of misfortunes, which have hurled me from tn afflu- 
ent and independent situation, to the painful necessity of soliciting an ap- 
pointment from the government. 

I intended making an effort for the appointment of Sargeanl-at- arms, but 
not arriving until the eleventh hour, I found my own immediate representa- 
tives, and the members, generally, pledged to others. 

The zeal and effort with which I supported the administration, and the 
heavy sacrifices I have made, strengthened by testimonials, strong as death, 
from the Chancellor, Judges, Members of the United State and Maryland 
Legislatures, &c. &c. embracing all the prominent administration men, 
will, I hope, render me worthy of executive patronage. 

What adds to my solicitude, is, my anxious wish to pay some balances I 
still owe, although there is no legal claim against me. If I should get em- 
ploy, I will so economise as to effect my object. I am now entirely depen- 
dant on two widowed daughter';. They have aided me liberally ; but ap- 
propriating it to pay old iM)ts. keeps me, in a state of need. I want to 
go to Baltimore on Thursday. Will you aid me by accommodating me with 
twenty dollars? 

$3* The $500 I paid for you, with the deduction of $30 in Lottery 

Tickets, from , I hope vou have not forgotten ! 

torn**, W. P. 



*~ T1IU MIRROR. 



Letter from W. Pechln to Col. B. Fowler. 

You certainly cannot have counted the prohahle cost of the unfeeling, 
unprincipled and dishonorable disrespect and meanness which your silence 
gave evidence of, in omitting to answer a letter I addressed to you in Wash- 
ington. Did you think that the individual, who, at the period he first knew 
you had defrauded the public and himself, declared to you that you should 
leave Baltimore, or a public exhibit would be given of your flagitious mat' 
practices — would submit to further agression on feeling you before so grossly 
outraged? I have only to say, if you flattered yourself in this way, you have 
made an imperfect estimate of my character. You had more lenity extended to 
you than you deserved. Recollect, you were permitted to leave Baltimore, 
without either a civil or criminal prosecution. 

To test whether you had any thing like redeeming' principle in you, I 
asked of you what I really stood in need of; the small amount of $20. 
Every honest and honorable man will say, when he shall have a fair and 
authenticated statement of the transaction, that your omitting to answer the 
letter, and failing to grant the trifling request, should render you deserving 
of disgrace, and [ 

Be assured you stand on a precipice. An exhibit, I will prepare, shall 
form an abyss or yawning gulf, based on the city records, that will make 
Washington as much too hot for you as Baltimore would have been, had you 
remained there. 

Your late conduct has given an enormity to your offence; and, as a pam- 
phlet I am now just putting to press, is intended as & remembrancer of error, 
you shall have the honor of an appendix, to be entitled "The Mirror, or, 
a two~fold likeness of ingratitude and meanness." — You shall be its Hero. 
It shall pourtray both the outer and inner man : — " naught shall be set down 
in malice. 

Insects and atoms have their biographers ; then, why should not a man 
of your distinction find a recorder of his unsullied progress ! 

By honoring you with an introduction, it may answer for the meridian of 
Washington as well as that of Baltimore. At least, copies shall be addressed 
to the President, Heads of Departments, and particularly to the Hon. Lewis 
Cass, the Head of your Department, and through the whole local official regis- 
try of Washington. 

After sacrificing my all in the cause of the present administration, I have 
been out of employ a number of years. I had to close my concern, and was 
made legally free ; but I made assumptions, and have been relieving myself 
from them as far as the liberality of my relatives have enabled me. My 
debts did not arise out of dishonor or swindling, or I should be still more 
anxious to indemnify and atone for them, and to have them expunged from 
the keenness and severity of reflection, as must, be their concomitant. Half 
the amount I paid for your defalcation, would relieve me from the balance I 
owe, with the exception of what may be due to my own connexions, about 
which I feel but little uneasiness. 

Perhaps, the little request I made of you, must, at the time of receipt, 
have encountered some purturbed and unfavorable moment, when it did not 
meet with a /eir ..and faithful awakening impulse, and chance of salutary 
reflection.* Or, it may be, the goadings of conscience end the prompting! 



TUB MlRROIt. 



23 



of justice and reason with a corrupt and unsubdued heart, have fa their con- 
flict so disturbed your nerves, as to have caused the loss of power of cor- 
rect act.on Only permit those engiUes, which the Creator has planted Yn 
fce humaabosom, tohive fair play, aad they will bend the stubborn m^pos^ 
ol the most hardened to honest dictates purpose 

all^h^r exX 011 ta "^ T thi f/ ul *^ » vou are n* obdurate beyond 
a 1 other existing example; I would mcke vou feel the lesistless blush and 
glow ot shame whose vivifying power, by explosive eneVg^ oTthe^rind- 
ple of animal electncity, would scorch, if hot burn up th L ver y letter at 
the moment vou may be reading it ' y ' 

Who would find fault with the cry of stop thief! in endeavoring to arrest 
the midmgh robber? And I would ask, whit is the difference in the amount 
of mora gui t, between the man who robs by treachery and fraud or bv 
bold and daring burglarious effort? The wan of principle is as "hrinL^n 
the lormer as latter! I would say, both description of Vharacterf we^cS 
out lor any thing desperatc-nor would I belie ve they woukl op at the 

3£ -them- 11 In ' f I* C0Ul M Cl ° Se "*"*» w, "' re a balance Eighth 
BJjLwlS ' AV0UM ****** P-perty should not be °put in 

For the present I check myself, with an assurance to you that I witt 
not mince matters I would further say, I am no slander r' e Le my 
sacred honor, that I will never wrongfully impugn the character o * fellow 
be.ng In arraigning you before the public La delinquent I shall v\Z 
m i"ft"r " nr'n' 1 V mnUtabk ' b --^onor, truth and justice ^ 

you terms but h^ T^' ? eT * ( ° n ' se a - ai "'" {t is in ™° to offer 

you terms, but have you no honest man as a friend? if you have "reason 

together, and learn prudence and wisdom. He may s ill sat4 Vou from 

be worst peltings of the storm which threatens you and e dy'to burs" 

wi l^'lou'anHW r H f Cl,hy to j m P Ift ^ilitV, or war to extermination. I 
fu evi I i ut i ! , ih ■ T i lnd alte . rnative With it, to parry off the dire- 

Though yoj may have all the artillery** the command of the V Depart: 

pared; if you arrest it it S tfi VTOn^JB&a * Ft '- 
bahnVe Sill 7 .'■' 1" V ""r ! ""'" C °» eCt :i "Vold account o pay the 

poor Mv r"? '";'• . :U " J 1 " 1 ^^ «»*i »nd ooooe fc,/ I m 
pooi My object .s, to obtain from you what is 'justly due to me Yon 
must , a ■ g pay it, inasmuch as yju and your son hL£ L g?eat nlm 

*fi proper. ^ J^ * ' 



■%.{ ; TUB MIRROR. 

Recollect the little narrative matter I gave in my last — another instance 
lias occurred since, to the honor of Washington. Let me say to you, "Go 
thou, and do so, likewise'' — and prevent the necessity of my seeking satis- 
faction and atonement, by a public exposure — from which nothing can save 
you but one or other of the arrangements proposed. — My letter to you will 
form a part of your Appendix. 

When Col. Little put you in office, I could have prevented it by a letter 
of a dozen lines. Your's, &c. 

WILLIAM PECHIN. 



Copy of a letter from Col. B. Fowler to W. Pechin, 

Washington*, April 16, 1833. 

Sir, I have this day had handed to me a communication from you of an 

extraordinary character. • You* sir, know me not. When your former com- 
munication was received I was not master of five dollars. Under the cir- 
cumstances you stated, I endeavored to borrow the small sum you asked for , 
but could not succeed, and to have so informed you at the time, I supposed 
from the temper of your letter, would not have obtained credit with you ; 
and I felt disposed to let time do its office in removing from my enemies the 
wrong impressions under which they were acting, and convince all who know 
me, that my intentions were upright. When I came to the district I la- 
bored under a heavy debt, exclusive of my obligation to my securities to the 
corporation of Baltimore. I have been pressed and harrassed from the mo- 
ment I left B. and have paid considerable : but in doing so, I have been con- 
stantly in debt here, for money borrowed, at a rate of from 2 to 2 1-2 per cent 
per month; and at this moment have $400 at the latter rate, payable by or- 
der on my salary, for $25 per month— and another loan payable $o0 every 
60 days, originally $650, reduced to $400. 

You are the only one -of my securities who have called on me, and 1 am 
willing to believe, you would not have done it, if not obliged to do so. I 
think my course after the unfortunate affair which involved you with others, 
on my account, ought to prove that my intentions towards my creditors was 
fair and honorable/though I might never be able to relieve myself from my 
obligations If I cannot do as I would— I must be satisfied to do as 1 can, 
Willing to bear all, suffer all, until I receive a general discharge by closing 
my mortal career : then I hope vengeance will be satisfied. It the sum you 
asked for in your former letter will be of any service I enclose it, and it 1 
thought you would believe it, I would give you my word, and as I hope 
for salvation, that I pay for it at the rate of 2 1-2 per cent per month. 

I am, Sir, 

Your obedient servant, 
W. Pechin, Esq. BENJ. FOWLER. 

Letter from W. Pechin to Col. Benj. Fowler, dated April 17, '33. 
On the receipt of your letter, at the moment of its first reading, I con- 
sidered it required an answer, with all the force of animadversion which it 
was in my power to command, and of which it is so very susceptible. An 
old friend of mine, and, indeed, an acquaintance of your's, of most honora- 
ble standing was present. After a brief statement of facts, I told him I 



the man \>5 



Would submit to him the shaping of the course I should pursue. He une- 
ouivocall) declared, that* considering our respective situations, and the pecu- 
liar nature of the circumstanced connected with the claim, that you ought to 
pay it. The amount, with interest, would be between Ten and Eleven 
Hundred Dollars. He proposed I should condition to take Five Hundred 
Dollars as full indemnity, in notes payable within the period of two years. 
I w ill give j i.ti a better chance | 1 am willing to take that amount in three 
rears, in nine notes, payable each at four months— progressively; If you 
assent to this reasonable proposition [I will accept none more soj make them 
payable to my order — then their transmission will be safe. 

Ydu pronounce my last letter to he.ef an extraordinary character. Per- 
mit me to say, your last, I can make appear, at least, as much so. I would 
just remark, its tenor, as regards your resources, does not comport with the 
policy of your public situation, which I could demonstrate if I were not 
willing to believe you will make an honorable arrangement — put, as it is, so 
conveniently in yourpdwer, I can most certainly say, it would operate 
but little in your favor, as a set-off against aueh an exhibit as I would make, 
should you render a public one necessary : but I sincerely hope it will be 
avoided. This much I will assure you, if you will require a public investi- 
gation, your letter shall be given^-and the horns shall go with the hide ! 
At present I urn not disposed to say a word in angry style, although— 
[Here some poetic matter is omitted.] 

I cannot resist glancing at some of the items in your letter. It would 

seem ungenerous to class me among your "enemies." You had no claim 
on me when 1 served you. Q& Remember, too, the nefarious manner in 
Which 1 was inveigled and deceived. You talk of being shaved. No pru- 
dent man would aid in exclaiming, what a pity! Ifany did, I would respond, 
pity is, it is a pity! It requires but abeam of sober reason to play upon 
the mind to .see the fallacy or impropriety of such complaining. Running 
a-head ot sTich an ample and splendid stipend, corresponds With your Baltf 
more career. $23,000 could soon be dissipated. Many respectable ien sub- 
pqrt .families I with sis or seven hundred dollars. I* learn vour family is 
small. At the time 1 paid 000 for you, I was paying endorsements to large 
amounts, and had to raise money at from one and a half to two per cent 
per month On real property I could not raise a cent. Covering your 500 
, : r i:r;:," , ' ,, '. fr 1 m firstt0 I 8 *' with Merest; something like a sacrifice of 
pid.WU. U ith your "upright intentions" I am not acquainted ; neither do I 
know how you could have been "harrassed" from the moment you left Bal- 
timore. I never heard of your paying any thing. I am glad to hear your 
intentions towards your creditors are fair and honorable." I hope this will 
be manifested. Fou must admit I have been indulgent in permitting my claim 
to la, n er thus long. It shows nothing like "vengeance." \ s 1 am the 
only security that, from poverty, has been obliged to call on you then 
I you I,, be the better prepared to pay me } 

„r ii" llir^ui^r^ ia ut :rr v - ' n lrrml >' ou t0 m T advertisement 

o - 9th & lOth Instant. Much public interest is excited for the promised 
publication. L T p 



tmtjrm W. P,rhin to Col. Bunj. Fouler. 

I jbavi l„ xetofow addressed you by thestrong. fervid I earnest words 

impassioned truth/ to bring you to i , both dutv and interest. 



^6 THE MIRROR. 

Can you be so erring, or so hardened in your temperament of mind, as to be 
willing, for a moment, to submit to the exposure you so justly merit, ra- 
ther than honestly pay me, what should be, s,o conveniently in your power 
to meet ? If you were like myself, you could not take the sweets of re- 
pose which your salary should command, whilst robbing a creditor of them, 
circumstanced as I am ! Recollect how fair I have made your chance for 
honest effort, if you have soul enough to make it. Would you prefer to in- 
dulge in your old Baltimore system of extravagance, to the adoption of a 
yearly retrenchment of something less than $170 per annum for three years, 
from an ample salary, such you are so unworthily in the receipt of ? Can 
you expect to hold your situation, when it shall be known that you have 
been so great a public defaulter ! If you should, then it will be no longer 
necessary to respect Jefferson's interrogatory- — " Js he honest V 

Be prepared to believe, any future arrows will hit their mark ! 

I wrote to you by Sunday's mail. I have not received an answer. 

The copy of my last letter enables me to quote the terms I offered to you. 
"lam willing to take that amount, $500 in three years, in nine notes, 
payable each, at four months — progressively. If you assent to thisre«so««- 
ble proposition, [I will accept none more so] make them payable to my or- 
der — then their transmission will be safe.'' 

I will keep my title page suspended for you until Monday morning. If 
vou still remain silent, you will next hear from me in print. 

W. PECHIN. 



-"His tongue drops manna; 



He can make the worse appear the better reason-, 
But all is false and hollow!" 

The above is in reference to Col. Fowler's letter, which it was my inten- 
tion further to remark on ; but there is awakened in my ntind, such a 
spirit of disgust and scorn, that I seem to sicken at the idea of a further 
animadversion. The fallacy, folly and futility of his letter are sufficiently 
conspicuous. 

He has always been considered a very plausible maiv — which stamp of 
character enabled him to entrap me, with but a slight acquaintance — 
and this was done, after he had clandestinely made over his property to the 
Corporation, to aid in covering former defalcation, of which I was totally 
ignorant. 

If this man is of the same species of myself, then do I deplore the deprav- 
ity of my race, more intensely than ever. But I will seek some comfort, by 
drawing a line of grade, which would seem to exist between us, and this 
will be done without metaphysical desection. It will be perceived I do not 
offer precepts, which I am not prepared to act on. A reference to my com- 
munications with the Mayor of Baltimore, will declare, that I conditioned not 
to touch a cent of the product of public employ, until the balance due to cred- 
itors, and such too who have not a legal claim, should be fully paid. The 
amount of salary I sought was 650 dollars. My correct, generous and grate- 
fid friend receives only 1400 dollars!. — And it appears he has not good feel- 
ing or honesty sufficient to impress him with a sense of gratitude — a divine 
virtue, the want of which, renders man detestable ! In my estimation, it 
is the strongest obligation which can exist between man and his fellow-man. 
I would hold it sacred, at the hazard of life itself! 

He wishes it inferred, by his specious letter, that he has been liquidating 
debts in Baltimore ; this is not the fact! A friend of his who was the last 



THE MIRROR. 



27 



to adhere to him, when he found it necessary to quit Baltimore, superceded 
a number of judgments for him — and he had to pay ili»- executions, though 
tinder serious monied pressure himself. Afi< ar pressing him forpaymenl from 
year to year, lie. finalij forwarded him the executions, , By. a private hand, 
and he insultingly sent them back in the same envelope! 

Such as do not feel indignant at such conduct, must be brazed and steeled 
against every good impression. 

The hand of torment shall not be extended, nor shall the rack of torture 
and despair now find a victim. 

1 would only say, dishonesty should be driven from office, where ever 
planted. It is improper that a suspicious character should hold a public sit- 
uation: for doubt should not exist respecting the principles of any individual 
in public employ. 

Let it be understood, though I wish employ, I would not take his office 
were it offered to me. 

Though it is not intended to make him the Nero of the Mirror, No. 2 ; 
still, he "hall be noticed, as to either W.HAL or wo. Commendation or con- 
demnation shall be fairly awarded to him! 



RETORT COURTEOUS. 

Em tins subdivision ofmy pamphlet the tenor of its stylo slu.ll be fairly ck>neei>onden1 with 

the blaiubuss of its title. Every thing shall be cm a scale of gentility, delicacy and polite- 
ness. The subject matter is of high and important interest to me— much more so than the 
object which lb»J»firror compartment exhibits: that limited itself pretty moth to pounds, 
shillings and pence ! connected with a feeble effort to turn a sinner from the error of his ways! 
The most interesting principle of this article bears upon my character, and calls for an expo- 
rition in defence, which every honorable, candid and impartial man will deem expedient, and 

must justify. 

"Setycomnumd is one of the noblest distractions of human nature," and if I had ground to 
xtand on as broad as creation, to strengthen mind and imagination, ' for a powerful and glow 
ing language to embody strictures, should I deem them necessary, which would make, even, 
the Hero of the Jlfirror tremble, 1 would not indulge in it, when 1 have in view an individual 
whom I have always respected. 1 will, therefore, just hunt myself toa plain statement offiu Us, 
without other comment than that which my letter embraces, which will 1- presented. The 
whole object with me, as will be perceived, is to mete to myself common justice. 

I am not fin lighting the toreh ofwar. 1 would not, unnecessarily, makean inroad on per 
Bonal friendship a eling, nor on thAharmony or felicity of society. Thosewhoknow 

• menil that liwouU rather enlarge than diminish the circle of human happini s, Had 

my disposition been of .different or contrary mould„l should u<a. have had occasion to write 
the Minor, No. 1.— nor would it have been net QS»ary to took a-head to No. '-•. Indeed, many 
other overwhelming pressures ofUl would have been avoided. 

On this occasion, were 1 to remain silent, 1 should deem myself culpably diffl 
my own dignity of character and intorcst too, and consider myself shrunk to the most con- 
temptible dimensions, as to mind and soul. 

Connect the amount of effort and in support of Oncral AcfcKHt, and, 1 believe, 
it will be admitted by all who would glVS an DOM I OphnOB, that no man si 1 more promi- 
nent than i . havinir b.- eemed to justify an idea, formed* by both ndee 
of the political question, that ingratitude had been manifested towards me. It may readily be 



28 RETORT COURTEOUS, 

conceived^ that the pungency of tire consideration, with mo, received increased sharpening 
whilst flattering myself with the conceit, that the General had in h!s possession, my principal 
testimonials— *ttroQcr as death ! In this I was curiously disappointed! 

To justify the administration and myself, and to brighten the picture a little, ia the object 
of this publication. 

As regards my rejection — it may correct public opinion, and relieve me from some of the 
painful weight of disappointment. 

To close this introduction, it is only necessary to state a fact; — the important testimonials 
alluded to, were delivered to Col. James Mosher, for presentment to the President ef the United 
States. What has been their fate, may be speculated on by what follows. 

Extract of an open Letter, from Col. Mosher, to a Lady in Georgetown. 

" Mr. Pechin gave me a packet of letters to be delivered to the President 
of the United States. I recollect to have received the papers ; but cannot 
recollect to whom they were delivered. My son thinks I gave them to 
Mr. Ingham ; but how I couid have done that, unlesss the President had 
requested me to do so, I cannot conceive, and I have no recollection of 
that. Could I, by any possibility have left any such packet at your house? 
I think it not possible ; but I feel greatly mortified that the papers have 
been mislaid or lost." 



Letter from W. Pechin to Col. James Mosher. 

Baltimore, April 13, 1833. 

Sir. — I am engaged in prepareing a pamphlet for the press, and I have 
declined going to Washington for a few days; but I called at your house and 
obtained the open letter you prepared for me. I do assure you its contents 
have occasioned some serious and unpleasant reflection, as to the fate of my 
most important letters of recommendation, and testimonials. The President 
has no recollection of their being presented to him, and Major Donaldson, 
his private Secretary, has no evidence of their receipt on his record, kept 
for the acknowledgment of all communications addressed to the President, 
An order was given to search at the Treasury Department. Mi. Dickens 
the chief clerk was very diligent in his efforts to find them; but no record or 

vestige could be found. In your letter to Mrs. , you say, you 

"think it not possible that you could have left them at her [Mrs. s',] 

house." I do, myself, think it very improbable. If they had been left 
there — so formidable a packet, sealed and directed to the President, we 
should suppose, they would have reached him, within the period of the 4 
years. Your son's idea, as to their lodgment, with the Secretary of the Trea- 
sury, must be incorrect, directed as they were, and the envelope being a long 
letter, addressed to the President, himself. 

When I confided in you for the transmission of the letters, I did not con- 
sider it could interfere with your own views, having received from you a 
strong letter, which was one of the number, and being, as it was, after the 
period of your own appointment. I did hear afterwards, thai; one of your 
son's expected an appointment in the Customs ; but I did not know it 
at the time. You were friendly and polite enough to promise me to use 
your personal influence in my favour. If you endeavoured to favour me. by 
accomplishing that, it should, I would conceive, lead to a recollection, as 
to the delivery of the packet. 



RETORT eOURTEOVS. 29 

before mv application was presented to llic President, you had received 
your appointment, and the Navy Agent had been nominated to the Senate. 
M\ pretentions were so far honored, as to be graded by the Secretary of the 
Treasury, for the Vaval Office, with Messrs. Carr and Piper; hut the heavy 
personal effort and influence of .Mr. Carr's friends, secured him the ascen- 
dency. 

The late Secretary of the Treasury honored me, by communicating to a 
friend of mine, that if 1 would accept an Inspector's appointment, and the 
Collector would nominate me, he would confirm it. James W. McCulloh, 
l]si(. Bhowed the letter to the Collector; hut he did not nominate me. 

In my first appeal to the President I promised to forward him further ex- 
hibits — those were they which you were to have borne to him — thev were 
from the Chancellor, Judges of our Courts, members of Congress, members 
of the Legislature of Maryland and others. They manifested much good 
feeling. If they could answer any purpose now, if obtained, they might be 
written with the same friendly motive: hut would' not breathe the' soma 
warmth of interest — the glow of soul which then existed, has in some mea- 
sure, subsided; you will recollect I read some of them to you. I never knew 
until lately, I asked to revive my application, that the papers in question, had 
never been received by the President. 

1 sincerly believe the non-delivery of those letters, blasted my chance in 
Washington. It left my promise to the President unredeemed. Will you 
furnish me villi something as an assurance to I lie President, that they were 
lodged with you; but as you consider "lost or mislaid." 

My feelings, as may he well imagined, suffer very much anguish with 
every reflection I give the subject. Some OSSOUging eilbrt must be madetoo, 
to qualify the pang of undeserved disappointment, as regards public opinion. 
As I am now situated, I am impelled to prevent an illiberal construing of the 
cause of my failure at Washington. My mind requires some mollifying 
means of preventing any thing like the impress of stigma from any ungene- 
rous quarter. 

Would there by any chance forme, in the next appointments, to be made 
at the Custom-house? After the last removals were made in your depart- 
ment, you promised to inform me when further appointments should be 
made. 

I wrote to Mr. McCulloeh the Collector, several letters on the subject. \ 
thought he would pay some respect to our old political acquaintance. 

Your's, &,c. 

WILLIAM PECHIN. 

(jf^- I had closed this letter, and at the moment I was about to form its 
superscription, my pen was arrested by the recollection of the manner in 
which you addressed me in your last ; and, also, in the open note in my 
possession. 

Habit, courtesy and etiquette gave the impulse to commence with shaping 
tlu' letter C. for Colonel, instead of M. for Mister. It made me " halt be- 
tween two opinions," as to which might please you best. I am for adopting 
the Chi sterjieldian policy — and as CUStOm seems to sanction military titles, 
I am willing to respect them. As regards the one I possess it sprang from 
the same source; of authority which invested you with your's. I have been 
honored with commissions in two wars ; and served as n field officer in one. 

Kt early as 1794, :it about the age of 18, by the influence of a maternal 
cousin, General I>>i<zht, 1 was honored with a commission in Pennsylvania, 
m\ Qitive State, in the army embodied under Washington. Genera] Bright 



30 RETOTtT COUHETOUS. 

was one of the sufferers in that sin!* of iniquity, the Jersey Prison Ship, 
He commanded in the famous Olmstead case ; being the first battle array, 
in conflict, as to State rights, between the United States and Pennsylvania. 
Like nullification, it failed, as I hope every attempt will, of the same stamp. 

In a civil point of view, you well know, I have had reiterated claims 
conferred on me, at least, as to Esqr. Still, you styled me plain Mister; and 
considering my present humble situation, I am satisfied. Indeed, the proud- 
est feudal titles are not so majestic, and certainly not so republican ! 

If like some of the patricians of Rome, I could trace genealogy, fabulous- 
ly, to the immortal gods, it might excite some pride as to glory and titles. It 
is unnecessary to say, I have no disposition of such emblazoning kind. 

As to what is sometimes very foolishly and proudly called standing in so- 
ciety, I never scanctified it by my devotion. Distinct from wealth, I deem 
my own as good as any man's. Even as regards dcrivit'we principle, I will 
not flinch from comparison even with those who consider themselves the big- 
gest in the community. 

Though the mania for private biography may not rage here as it is said to 
do in France, still, I consider, where it may blend some little historical inci- 
dents, it may be permitted. I could proceed on the principle of patriotism, 
distinct from any pride of aristocratieal consequence, as to hereditory honor, 
to state, that at an incipient period of those principles which gave birth to 
the liberties of our country, my father, as a member and secretary of the first 
Board of Public Safety formed for Pennsylvania, "pledged his sacred honor, 
and hazarded his life and fortune," or, what was tantamount thereto, in 
support of the infant struggles for freedom. His compatriots were, in the 
committee, Gen. Roberdeau, president of the board — Franklin, Morris, Miff'-' 
lin, &c. and in the counting-room of the first named, he shaped his charac- 
ter as a competent,- enterprising and successful merchant. In the firm of 
Bright 8f Pechin, at, and previous to the period of the Revolution, he was 
the efficient man of business. 

The anniversary of the signing of the Delaration of Independence is par- 
ticularly recognized, as a jubilee in our land. The fame and glory of its 
signers are imperishable. Shall I not then, without fear of condemnation, 
be permitted to indulge in a tribute of filial feeling, Ao the memory of a Sire 
who aided with his all, the same sacred cause? The annunciation of such 
memorial, offering a tribute of respect to deceased relatives or friends is ad- 
missible throughout all Christendom. Could the Commissary department be 
consulted at the gloomy period, just before the battle of Trenton, when the 
lacerated and bleeding feet of the defenders of our infant liberties, were im- 
pressed on the snow and ice on the Delaware and its banks — his exchange 
of specie for uncurrent paper, to supply their pressing wants, would, at least, 
declare him a public benefactor! A printed list is now in the hands of one of 
the Revolution Patriots of the city of Philadelphia, bearing the names of 
those who were most conspicuous in aiding the struggles for freedom — among 
such band of worthies is the name of Christopher Pechin; but he was not 
permitted to see the standard of liberty securely planted. He died in '79. 

The records of the Loan Office of Pennsylvania, before the funding sys- 
tem of Alexander Hamilton — after that, the records of that of the United 
States, will show the sacrifices, or, at least, his amount of aid in establishing 
the liberties of the country. Before funding, a large amount was sold, like 
soldiers' certificates, at two shillings and sixpence for the pound. At a future 
period, I may expand this subject. 

I could give some further attending historical facts. Many important cir- 



UKTOKT COURTEOUS. 31 

cu instances and omissions might yet l>e developed as to the Rcvolutfona- 
rl j W ;ir. — The same may he said of the last war. 1 contemplate writing 
its history, in which l\\ ill endeavor to cover imperfections. My having 
borne an humble part in it, will not render me less qualified lor the task. 

I know it will be necessary, in portraying character faithfully, to make 
a different distribution oi the plumes and hunch, from that which has been 
heretofore dispensed. The encircling of brows shall be hpnestly adjusted. 

"The immortal Washington said, "The glory of our lathers is a light to 
posterity." And another gnat man has said, "To censure a just pride of 
ancestry would be to Lessen the incentives to virtue." 

I cheek mvself; the animating theme, as regards revolutionary principle, 
has < reaped a correspondent fervor of feeling. 1 ask pardon, if 1 have given 
any thing extraneous or inapposite. 

Your's, &c. 

WILLIAM PECHIN. 

$$=• Col. Mosher will see the propriety and expediency of the present ex- 
planation. — Had he furnished one himself, in accordance with my fair and 
reasonable request, to qualify my feelings, it would have pleased me better; 
but my tetter has remained unanswered for something like a month. 

The injury which has resulted to me from the loss of my recommendatory 
Utters, might have been in some measure repaired, and reflection at this pe- 
riod might have been less acute, had Col. Mosher informed me at the lime, 
that they were lost or mislaid!" When he returned from Washington he 
told me they were delivered. Viewing them as a sacred deposite, as I had 
a right to do, I entertained no doubt of their safety. 

The Colonel says he "feels mortified that the papers have been mislaid or 
lost." M \ feelings on the subject, are compounded of every thing painful, 
of which, it migdc be conceived, the Colonel must have been sensible. I 
regret he has not evinced more solicitude, in affording that relief which 
seems so necessary by a public statement. 1 will endeavor to make this lit- 
tle effort, without comment, heal the wound that has been inflicted, remember- 
ing, as 1 do, that "He thatfuleth his own spirit is greater than the mighty." 
The collection of the letters subjected me to much trouble, ami more than 
ordinary philosophy is requisite, to reflect with calmness; on their disastrous 
fate. Remember, "To err is sometimes nature; to rectify error is always 
glory!" — said the illustrious Washington. 



WILLIAM PEOHIKT 

Most respectfully asks, those who vviil patronise him, for their Subscription to 

J JEFFERSON'S JTOTJBS on VIII GXJl'IM; 



WITH ALL THE 



9 
TOGETHER WITH 

SOMETHING SUPPLEMENTARY, 

ON WHAT HAS BEEN 

A DISPUTES) POINT. 

A Handsome Octavo Edition*->-Price, $1-50. 

Political enthusiasm and fervor of party feeling, at a former period, drew aline of demarka- 
lion between Jefferson and the affections of a considerable portion of the. American people: — But,, 
now, the whole community, without party distinctions, honor the great name of Jefferson — it is 
considered the nearest adjunct with the- immaculate one of Washington, of all the American wor- 
thies, who have passed through the ordeal of life to the consummation of glory ! The purity, of 
both their lives, accorded with the brightness displayed in their disinterested course of patriotic 
effort. Their lame, great as it is, is not more transcendent than their virtues. — "They wor- 
shipped God, their Country and its Liberty'.'''' 

In thus blending, in exhibit, the Hero and Philosopher, I am prepared to conceed to Wash- 
ington, what is so importantly due to him on military principle. His "faithful service and his 
toil in war," secured to him, with unlimited strength, the affections and gratitude of the Ameri- 
ican people, and the honor, respect and applause of the world. I cannot hero resist making 
reference to a recent period, when an attempt was made, to throw military distinction in the 
back-ground, in dread of consequences , from a recollection of the usurpations of other govern- 
ments. Constituted, as are the American people, we have not any thing to fear. A little brush 
may now and then happen ; but it will amount to nothing serious. The patriotic devotion 
and intelligence of the people, are adequate to meet all exigences. There can be no danger 
from despots abroad or at home. Throw an interdiction on military character, as regards 
the highest official station in the Nation; and then where is left the incentive, in the time of 
peril, for noble daring and a bold defiance of death itself! The enc?c ling laurel wreath, to 
the victorious saviour of his country, would be nothing more than a weeping willow bandage, 
to bind the Conqueror's brow! It would be the badge of circumscribed rights, and with trumpet- 
t< ngued power would declare him less than a freeman! 

That portion of Jefferson?s notes, which connected itself with his religious opinions, was much 
objected to, when 1 stood in Baltimore, alone, as an editor, to defend his attributes of char- 
acter, as a patriot and friend to his country. 1 am not disposed to except any individual, in 
claiming pre-eminence, in arresting the progress of usurpation, by contending for the abroga- 
tion of a Gag-law, Mien bill, Duties on Stamps and other unconstitutional impositions. . A gen- 
tleman who was connected with me in business, and who knew my efforts in the cause of 
Jefferson and his principles; although not on terms of personal friendship with me, when 
he expressed the sentiment, honorably yielded to me the opinion ; that 1 "did more to change 
the politics of the State than any man in it. n 

The United States of America first portrayed the glorious picture of Religious Freedom; and 
the hitherto restrained spirit of man rejoiced at tho declaration contained in our Constitution, 
that "no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust un- 
der the government." Thus Religion,, as well as Republicanism was, in this country, first 
graduated to every inclination of the human mind, confined only by reason, and adapted to 
ensure the happiness of the many, free from the dominion of the few. And who was most 
conspicuous in giving stability to such blissful state of things, in our country.' — The great 
Apostle of Freedom, Jefferson; who, though he did not draw forth the sparks— mainly ad- 
ded to the kindled flames ! 

His style is glowing, natural & mellow ; always ornamenting Reason with a fascinating attire. 
gf- As an old weather-beaten Editor, and the oldest in Maryland, lam still anxious to fur- 
nish the public with an Independent Paper, on my old & novel plan, as delineated in my es- 
say on the "Freedom of the Press." Believe me, the public good damands it— independently 
of any consideration, as to my interest, which I would ask you to support, on reciprocal prin- 
ciple. Aid me as an Author and a Publisher, and the object can be effected. 

+ ', My annunciation of the intended appearance of this Pamphlet was marked in the evening 
papers for the American— but was not copied ! ! — No space for comment, or the use of a Rod .' 

^ Subscriptions received by W. Fechin, at Wm. Bromwell's, Baltimore, near Sharp-stred 
s.nd at places where this Pamphlet may be obtained. 



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